The two things most new about the most popular Jetta models can't be seen. They can, however, be felt.

First and foremost, a new 1.8 liter turbocharged four replaces the 2.5-liter five under the hood on SE and SEL trim levels for 2014 (those two trim levels represents more than half of all Jetta buyers). This is essentially a scaled-down version of the celebrated 2.0T engine, which has long been my favoriteVW power plant. The reason that many like me like this engine is the combination of lag-free quickness, solid low-end torque and good fuel economy.

The 1.8T is rated at 170 h.p. and 184 lb. ft. of torque, and hits 60 from a standstill in 7.9 seconds (automatic transmission), or 7.3 (manual). The engine has a snappy feel, and thanks to the abundance of torque, the car is quick off the dime — unusual for a small, turbo engine. And the 1.8T is lag-free and much smoother than the coarse 2.5 five. As to fuel economy, SEL level Jettas like my test car are only available with an automatic transmission (6-speed). EPA estimates for the 1.8T four with automatic are 25 mpg's city/36 highway.

Beyond the engine, the other change you'll feel in the 2014 Jetta is the upgraded rear suspension. VW has replaced the former torsion beam rear axle with a fully independent suspension. The chassis changeover translates as more complaint handling. Hit a bump mid corner, and the Jetta steps over it with less fanfare than before. Ride quality also appears to have benefitted from the suspension swap.

The electronic power steering is evenly weighted, though it doesn't give the driver a lot of feedback. Four wheel disc brakes — standard as of last year — stop confidently. The combination of front wheel drive, traction control and stability control is a good, basic tool kit for combatting northeast winter driving.

Jetta's last full makeover happened in 2011. Redesigned specifically for the American market, the car emerged 2.9 inches longer than the outgoing model. Upsizing paid dividends in additional space for passengers and cargo. For example, Jetta added 2.7 inches in rear legroom. In practical terms, Jetta can now (just) fit six-footers in both rows, which wasn't happening in the former version. The trunk measures a good-for-the-class, 15.5 cubic feet of storage capacity. Rear seatbacks fold forward to accommodate longer items in the trunk, though the load floor isn't flat. The newly available, rear view camera is standard on SEL models. As found elsewhere, it's practical safety technology, usable every time you drive the car.

When Jetta's sixth generation appeared in 2011, it was apparent that the increase in cabin dimensions was offset by a decrease in interior fit and finish. Dash and door panel plastics, for example, were less substantial than previously. Sliding into the 2014 edition, you'll see improvement, by the inclusion of soft touch padding on the Jetta dash (except on S, SE). Jetta has a straight-forward layout of instruments and switchgear. Controls for climate and sound system are found on the center stack and are easy to work and non-distracting. The available touchscreen navigation system (standard on SEL) functions well, but the screen size is small and the graphics are underwhelming. In addition to the tactile dash improvements, SEL drivers have an easier time of getting situated behind the wheel, with a six-way power seat. With eight speakers and a subwoofer, the Fender Premium audio system offers above average sound quality. Also newly available this year (standard on SEL and SE with Connectivity models) is VW's Car-Net telematics. The system bundles connectivity, convenience and diagnostic functions, offered on a subscription basis. The roster of services includes automatic crash notification, location-based roadside assistance, agent destination assistance, and stolen vehicle assistance. Remote vehicle access includes a smartphone app that lets you control many Car-Net functions from wherever you are. You can, for example, see if you left the lights on in your car, schedule a service appointment, even get a reminder of where you parked your car. After the six month free trial, a one year subscription costs $199, or you can go month-to-month, at $17.99/per.

First offered in the states in 1980, the 2014 edition of VW's popular Jetta is offered in a wide range of models and trim levels, ranging from an MSRP of $16,720 for a base, S model, to $31,445 for a Hybrid SEL Premium.

A regular contributor to the Times Union for more than 20 years, Dan Lyons is the award-winning author of six books, and photographer of over 150 calendars. Read Dan's recent reviews on line anytime at www.TimesUnion.com.